Feigenholtz plan cuts red tape from adoption process

SPRINGFIELD – A measure sponsored by State Senator Sara Feigenholtz (D-Chicago) would further streamline the state’s adoption process while removing redundancies and red tape.

“Reaching the final steps of the adoption process is a wonderful experience, but the final steps can be confusing and laden with red tape,” said Feigenholtz, who is herself an adoptee. “In an effort to make a challenging process less so, this bill fine tunes and clarifies some issues that often arise while finalizing an adoption.”

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Crowe advances measure to digitize hearings, signatures for wills

SPRINGFIELD – Illinoisans looking to update their wills or establish end-of-life plans have faced barriers during the pandemic due to a rule requiring in-person court hearings, inspiring State Senator Rachelle Crowe (D-Glen Carbon) to introduce an initiative to update current practices for remote and electronic filings. The measure passed through the Senate’s Judiciary Committee Tuesday.

“Over the last year, more aspects of our daily lives have gone digital, but the procedure for estate planning has lagged behind as technology advances,” Crowe said. “Providing residents the option to have remote will hearings and electronic filings makes the process quicker and simpler.”

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College students could see lower textbook prices under Murphy plan

SPRINGFIELD – College students in Illinois could see lower textbook purchase and rental costs under legislation filed by State Senator Laura Murphy (D-Des Plaines), which requires colleges and universities to find ways to make course materials more affordable.

“A full-time undergraduate student today spends nearly $1,300 per year on textbooks and supplies. Especially on top of tuition and other fees, that can be overwhelming,” Murphy said. “It’s time to explore more affordable options, like inclusive access models, e-books, and subscription and rental programs.”

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What does Black History Month mean to you?

 Members of the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus talk about why Black History Month is important to them, to our state and to our country. Watch here: https://youtu.be/3CRb1br504s